Patients usually complain of dysphagia (the feeling of food getting stuck several seconds after swallowing), and will point to the suprasternal notch or behind the sternum as the site of obstruction. If there is dysphagia to both solids and liquids, then it is most likely a motility problem. If there is dysphagia initially to solids but progresses to also involve liquids, then it is most likely a mechanical obstruction.

Once a distinction has been made between a motility problem and a mechanical obstruction, it is important to note whether the dysphagia is intermittent or progressive.

Progressive motility dysphagia disorders include scleroderma or achalasia with chronic heartburn, regurgitation, respiratory problems, or weight loss. Intermittent mechanical dysphagia is likely to be an esophageal ring. Progressive mechanical dysphagia is most likely due to peptic stricture.

If you feel you have a swallowing issue be sure to talk with your Dr. re your problem.~~Kitt~~Moderator: Anxiety, Osteoarthritis,GERD/Heartburn and Heart/Cardiovascular Disease.

"She Stood in the Storm & When the Wind Did Not Blow Her Away, She Adjusted Her Sails."

Many thanks for your reply, I have been diagnosed with mild dysphagia - pharyngeal - food getting stuck at the back of my throat - I have LPR -- and am undergoing neurology tests at the moment. However I did wonder if anyone else had ever had these symptoms caused by acid burning the throat?Hypothyroidism, Glaucoma, Dry Eye Syndrome, Positional Vertigo

"I am simply stunned...that is this age of technology not one company or individual has managed to make a valve that could be placed BELOW the LES to STOP reflux!"

My epitglottis was damaged by the acid in my throat.It's supposed to be tight and slanted where food slides off of it when we eat.With me it's actually cupped and food can fall into my windpipe. I have to double swallow with my chin touching my chest after each bite.JoyLupus, Fibromyalgia, Glaucoma, Asthma, Hypothyriodism, Sleep Apnea, OA, Depression, Allergies, and benign familia tremors

When life throws you lemons....Pick them up and throw them right back at them! :))

Thank you so much for replying, although I'm so sorry to hear of your swallowing problems. May I ask how you find coping with dysphagia? And did you have significant Gerd or LPR? Did you get recommended for speech therapy and did you find it of any benefit?

I had it pretty bad and medicine couldn't help me.Yes, I saw a speech therapist who did a modified barium swallow to see what was causing my swallowing issue. That's when they discovered my epiglotis damage.JoyLupus, Fibromyalgia, Glaucoma, Asthma, Hypothyriodism, Sleep Apnea, OA, Depression, Allergies, and benign familia tremors

When life throws you lemons....Pick them up and throw them right back at them! :))